Youth Insearch Programs

At the 48 hour weekend programs a safe and trusting atmosphere is created for young people aged between 12 and 17 years.

Through weekend programs and follow up support groups young people address the reasons behind their:

abuse of drugs and/or alcohol

anti-social behaviour

turning to crime

lack of any motivation to obtain employment,

or continue with their education

By drawing on the resources of other young people and addressing the real problem or unresolved issue, young people seek positive alternatives in their lives and are encouraged to create their own peer support network turning away from a life governed by substance abuse, anti-social behaviour and crime.

A typical weekend program would consist of approximately 50 young people and 10 to 15 support adults. Topics explored at throughout the weekend include communication, trust, self-esteem, parent/adolescent relationships, drug & alcohol abuse, suicide, adolescent health, sexual assault and grief.

Adults adopt a mentor role in this process. It is the young people who have experienced similar issues and can relate to each other who provide the guidance and support.